Putin also introduced Assad to the senior officials of the Russian Defense Ministry and the General Staff, who are currently in Sochi for a series of meetings on defense issues.

The two leaders agree that military operation in Syria is coming to an end. The Russian and Syrian presidents also emphasized the need to launch political processes in the country:

"I believe that the problem of terrorism is universal, a lot should be done to achieve a complete victory over terrorism, but as far as our cooperation in the fight against terrorists in Syria goes, the military operation is really coming to an end," Putin said. "I think, now the main thing is to move to political processes, and I am pleased to see your readiness to work with everyone willing to establish peace and find solutions," the Russian leader added.

"Over this time, huge successes have been achieved, both on the battlefield an on the political level. Many areas in Syria have been liberated from terrorists, and civilians who were forced to leave those areas have been able to return," Assad pointed out.

Putin and his Syrian counterpart have discussedthe major principles of the political process in Syria and preparations for a congress of the Syrian people.

"The day after tomorrow [on November 22], I plan to meet with my counterparts, the presidents of Turkey and Iran, here in Sochi. We had an agreement to hold additional consultations with you during a personal meeting. The main question concerns the political process that will be launched after terrorists are defeated, and is expected to help find a long-term solution to the Syrian crisis," Putin told Assad.